Tunisians took to the streets of the capital to protest against the deteriorating state of the country, as the presidential campaign season officially begins.
Demonstrators slammed the government’s handling of economic and political issues, carrying signs that highlighted the growing costs of staple items and concerns about civil liberties.
The protests come as President Kais Saied prepares to campaign for reelection on October 6, seeking a second term.
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Saied has been criticized for consolidating power, freezing parliament, and rewriting the constitution. His tenure has seen the arrest of journalists, activists, and political opponents, as well as a steady increase in unemployment.
Former assembly member Samia Abbou said Saied has failed on many important fronts, while demonstrator Sghaier Zakraoui expressed concerns about the growing number of political figures jailed under Saied and the need to protect civil rights.
The protests cap off a week in which the North African country’s largest opposition party, Ennahda, said its senior members had been arrested en masse.
The demonstrations are a testament to the growing discontent among Tunisians, who are seeking change and accountability from their leaders.
